New York

8 February 2012

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on the security situation in northern Mali
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The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the fighting between Tuareg rebel groups and Government forces in northern Mali. He is especially troubled by the large-scale humanitarian consequences of the crisis, including civilian casualties and thousands of internally displaced persons with many more seeking refuge in neighbouring countries, thus aggravating an already dire humanitarian situation throughout the Sahel region.

The Secretary-General condemns the use of violence as a means to achieve political objectives. He therefore calls on the rebel groups to immediately cease their attacks and to engage in dialogue with the Government of Mali to resolve their grievances.

The Secretary-General reiterates the support of the United Nations for efforts to find a peaceful and durable solution to this crisis.